At this point in his life, Bill Burge finds happiness in the simple things: the comfort of his recliner, a good TV show, homemade cooking from his wife of 56 years, a visit from his granddaughter and an occasional trip into the community.

“I’m pretty easy,’’ the retired postal worker who now lives in Boothbay said with a smile. “I go with the flow.”

Bill was diagnosed with late-stage Alzheimer’s disease and also has chronic health conditions. As you can imagine, sometimes he finds it difficult to enjoy life’s pleasures. His wife, Sue, does all that she can to help Bill and remains steadfast in her commitment to keep him safe and at home.

“Once he got the Alzheimer’s diagnosis, I told him, ‘You are not going anywhere,’” Sue said. Providing daily care for her husband has both physical and emotional demands, but Sue is finding it easier to cope since meeting with the palliative care team at LincolnHealth.

Lauri Ann, nurse practitioner, met with Sue and Bill in their home and completed a lengthy assessment. She listened to Bill’s wishes and made sure he expressed how he wanted to live the remainder of his life. She also took care of some of the more difficult concerns, like having a living will and deciding whether to prolong life if Bill needs to be resuscitated.

Bill continues to receive medical treatment and is maintaining his physical health. At the same time, palliative care has given Sue the support she needs and a person she can call with any questions or concerns.

“I have peace today because I know there’s someone there for me no matter what. It’s important for people to know that it’s never too early to engage in palliative care,’’ Sue said. “Having a person like Lauri Ann sitting there and ready to advise has made me very secure and taken a burden off my heart.”

Bill now receives help with daily activities three times a week from personal support specialists and Sue appreciates the extra hand now and then. Her peace of mind is magnified by the close relationship she and Bill have with Aquilino Alamo, M.D. at Lincoln Medical Partners Family Care Center and the palliative care team.

“Palliative care is not hospice. It’s about aging gracefully and in place and making sure people’s wishes are followed,’’ Sue said. “I hope people will understand this and engage in this program. Don’t try to do this alone. There are nice, professional people on your side and ready to help.”

For more information on LincolnHealth’s palliative care program, please call 563-4250.